Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 22nd of April.
Good morning, Harrisburg.
🏘️ Community
Hersheypark announced new security measures to use photo technology—replacing manual ticket stamps—to help verify same-day re-entries after safety concerns from an opening weekend fight.
Some visitors say the change appears efficient while others feel it is unusual.
The Symons Family Fitness Center at the Alexander Grass Campus closed its doors Tuesday night amid financial changes — several instructors faced furloughs and members are seeking clarification about class cancellations and refunds.
Local gymgoers expressed disappointment over the lack of advanced notice.
The 11th annual Match Madness campaign raised over 1.48 million to support health-focused nonprofits in Central Pa, with local donors contributing over 1.3 million and matching funds up to 150,000 from partners + additional backing from local sponsors; top fundraisers include Project SHARE, Community CARES, CWS Harrisburg, Bosler Memorial Library, and Safe Harbour.
Schreiber Center marked a historic milestone at its 90th Anniversary Diamond Gala held at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Lancaster — nonprofit leaders raised a record $532,354 to support over 7,193 therapy hours for children of all abilities across central Pennsylvania.
Survivors and advocates gathered at the PA State Capitol today to urge lawmakers for a $12.5 million boost in funding for rape crisis centers amid rising costs and evolving threats (including AI-driven exploitation).
Organizers stressed that funding disparities leave high-need areas like Philadelphia underserved.
💼 Business
Harrisburg Dairies sold its real estate + equipment + naming rights to Patanjali Dairy USA LLC for $4.95 million after filing for bankruptcy.
A federal judge approved the deal at 2001 Herr St. on April 21.
🎭 Culture
Volunteers in Lower Paxton Township restored a century-old Revolutionary War plaque (by replacing bolts and cleaning its surface) on Saturday.
A formal rededication is scheduled for September.
Families can join the spring-themed chocolate lab at The Hershey Story Museum today to create, decorate, and taste treats — a hands-on experience for visitors of all ages.
🎓 Education
Dr. Charles Palmer, dean of Harrisburg University's School of Applied Media and Innovation, was appointed to the AAA Central Penn Board of Directors on April 21 and will serve a three-year term.
His appointment reflects his expertise and commitment to Central Pennsylvania.
Harrisburg High School eSports teams will compete in the PA Cup Finals hosted by Harrisburg University Friday.
The varsity team Phoenix is seeded first—while junior varsity Cerberus is seeded fourth—as the event highlights the school’s new club program, which builds teamwork and skill.
🏛️ Government
In Pennsylvania, e-bikes are treated like bicycles so riders need not hold a title or license, but riders must be at least 16 and each bike must weigh 100 pounds or less (with a motor of 750 watts max and a 20 mph cap) while obeying traffic laws.
Representative Catherine Wallen honored 100-year-olds Dorothy Greer and Harrison Fair — a World War II veteran — with State House citations on Monday at Cross Keys Village retirement home in New Oxford.
🎉 Harrisburg Events
Submit an event →
Railroad Earth Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — XL Live — Cost info unavailable — Experience a captivating performance by Railroad Earth in a vibrant atmosphere.
Pink Talking Fish Concert
8:00 – 9:30 PM — XL Live — Ticket prices vary — Experience a fusion of Pink Floyd, The Talking Heads and Phish!
Pigeons Playing Ping Pong
7-8:30 p.m. — XL Live — Cost info not provided — Experience the vivacious and energetic performance from Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, a band that thrives on community and connection through their music.
Melissa Etheridge Concert
8-11 p.m. — Hershey Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Grammy-winning artist Melissa Etheridge during her 'The Rise Tour'.
Jimmie's Chicken Shack Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — XL Live — Ticketed event — Enjoy an electrifying alt-rock performance by Jimmie's Chicken Shack.
Fire Expo 2026
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center — Check back for units on display — Experience the latest in firefighting techniques and safety innovations.
Carlisle Brew Mixer
11 AM – 4 PM — Carlisle Fairgrounds — Check for ticket details — Enjoy a day filled with music by versatile performer Dave Gates and craft brews.
Christone 'KINGFISH' Ingram Live Concert
8-11 p.m. — XL Live — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the electrifying blues of Kingfish Ingram in an intimate setting.
🏠 Harrisburg Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Harrisburg Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Harrisburg Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Harrisburg.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.